Staying In & Staying Fit

When getting to the gym regularly is a challenge, it can be difficult to stick to a healthy lifestyle, especially if you find yourself cooped up inside. Luckily, we've got some recommendations and low-impact exercises that are easy on the joints and can be done indoors with or without any extra equipment or weights. If you don’t have weights at home, that’s okay. Try using half-gallon milk jugs and fill them with either water, sand, or rice, either all the way up or halfway, depending on preference. If you find the half-gallon to not be enough weight, try full-gallon jugs.

Motivation

Although there are many excuses to be made for skipping a workout during colder weather or when getting out is challenging, it's important to hold yourself accountable. There are ways to have an effective, enjoyable workout in the comfort of your home.

Exercising is a priority for everyone's physical and mental wellbeing. It can help with a variety of wellness health needs, such as joint protection, healthy mood, heart health regulation, better sleep, and even supported immune function. Physical activity will make your cardiovascular system work more efficiently,¹ and boost energy throughout the day as well.

Set Goals

Staying motivated and staying on track is easier when there are goals set in place. These don’t have to be restricted to a number on the scale. Rather than a weight goal, pay attention to how your clothes are fitting, how your mental health is, and how walking up the stairs feels—you may find yourself less and less winded over time. Sit down and write at least two short-term and two long-term goals you have for yourself. With these goals, write what you'll have to do in order to achieve them. This will act as a guide in your fitness journey.

Exercises

There are many ways you can be active indoors:

• Strength training
• Yoga
• Dancing
• Pilates
• Walking up and down stairs
• Cycling
• Stretching

Below is an example of a workout that can be performed indoors with limited space either with or without weights/bands. These exercises will help with joint support, balance, and maintaining muscle mass.

If you feel pain during any exercise, stop immediately. Exercises should be performed at least three times a week. Stretching is recommended before and after workouts.